Merino out of Sociedad squad amid Arsenal talks, Zubimendi called up despite Liverpool rumours

BeSoccer 1 month ago 3.2k |

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Merino and Zubimendi are on the verge of a Premier League move. AFP

Real Sociedad will face Union Berlin in the second to last friendly of the preseason. For this match, Mikel Merino, who is close to joining Arsenal, has not been called up. On the other hand, Martin Zubimendi, a player for whom Liverpool wants to pay the termination clause, is in the squad.

Mikel Merino and Martin Zubimendi are two of the biggest concerns for Real Sociedad fans. Both midfielders are indispensable pieces for Imanol Alguacil, who could be without one (or both) for the upcoming season.

The scorer of the goal with which Spain eliminated Germany in extra time is wanted by Arsenal. Apparently, he already gave the green light to Mikel Arteta a week ago. Now, he has been left out of the call-up 'Txuri-urdin' for the friendly against Union Berlin, a pretty clear clue that the deal may be close to fruition.

The proximity of La Liga opener means that the presence and absence of players in this type of match is more important. While Mikel's absence may scare the fans, they could be excited by the presence of Martin Zubimendi, a player who is targeted by Liverpool.

The Reds are willing to pay the 60 million euros release clause of the midfielder, who, in principle, would also have responded affirmatively to the proposal. However, his inclusion in the call-up gives hope to Real, who, as it is a question of the clause, have no say in the deal.